Degenerative Disk Disease

(Degenerative Disc Disease)

Definition

Disks lie between the spinal bones (vertebra). They serve as shock absorbers. This protects the spine and helps it stay flexible. Degenerative disk disease is wear and tear on these disks. This wear and tear causes pain and other symptoms. Some degeneration is normal as you age. Not all degeneration will result in symptoms of this disease.

Causes

The disk is usually dehydrated, and not as resilient as normal. The fibrous tissue, which holds the disk material in place, may suffer small tears. These tears lead to further damage. There is some evidence that genetics may play a part for some people.

Risk Factors

Factors that may incerase your chance for degenerative disk disease:

Increased age

Family history of degenerative disk disease

Athletic activity

Back injury

Symptoms

Symptoms of degenerative disk disease include:

Pain in the low back, buttocks, thighs, or neck

Pain that worsens when sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting

Pain that feels better when walking, changing positions, or lying down

Periods of severe pain that gets better after a few days or months

Numbness and tingling into the legs

Weakness in the legs

Foot drop (inability to raise the foot at the ankle)

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Other tests may include:

Blood and/or urine tests to rule out other causes of pain

MRI scan
—a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body

X-ray
—a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially the bones

Discography
—dye is injected into the affected spinal area to get
clearer x-ray images

EMG/NCV-a neurophysiologic test used in some cases to evaluate nerves which may be irritated or impinged on by a disk.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:

Physical Therapy

Therapy for this condition is focused on teaching you how to manage your back pain. This may involve:

Posture training

Exercise

Ice packs

Heating

Electrical stimulation

Relaxation

Other forms of physical therapy

Injections

Steroid injections may be used for some short term pain relief. They are injected around the nerves exiting the spinal cord.

Surgery

Surgery may be required for some. Surgery may involve removing the degenerated disk and fusing two of the vertebra together.

Prevention

Take the following steps to help protect your spine:

Begin a safe
exercise program
with the advice of your doctor.

Maintain a
healthy weight
.

If you have
osteoporosis
, follow your doctor's instructions for treating the condition.

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